Aqsu is a quiet provincial town in eastern Azerbaijan, on the road north-east from Kurdamir toward the Şamaxı highway. It sits in an agricultural area known for grape processing, preserves, and cocoon drying — a glimpse of the rural economy that underpins this part of the country.
The town's main sights include the History Museum, a recently built mosque, and a memorial to the 20 January massacre. North of town, the Aqsu pass offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills. To the east, near the village of Bazavand, lie the ruins of 18th-century New Shemakha. South-west is Qaraqoyonlu, where the 19th-century Ag Gumbaz tomb can be seen. Aqsu is about 150 km west of Baku.